other hip joint operations, the head of the femur is not replaced, but is allowed to heal and develop its own fibrous scar tissue so that the joint is no longer bone-to-bone, a pseudoarthrosis (also called a "false joint"). The neck of the femur is usually removed at the same time as the head. This prevents the post operative complication of bone rubbing on bone and continued pain. This has led to the procedure often also called "Femoral head and neck ostectomy". Animals who have had the operation are required to maintain a lower weight to compensate for the loss of skeletal integrity, and typically have excellent functional outcomes with appropriate physical therapy. See also List of surgeries by type References Dog health Orthopedic surgical procedures Surgical removal procedures Veterinary procedures